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Leadership at its finest transforms ideas into action, dreams into reality. True leaders don't merely imagine possibilities; they possess the clarity and determination to guide teams decisively from vision to tangible outcomes. A vision, no matter how brilliant, remains only potential unless accompanied by purposeful execution. Leaders who master this art create a lasting impact by bridging aspiration and achievement through focused, deliberate effort.

Yet, translating vision demands more than strategic insight; it requires powerful communication and deep empathy. Effective leaders paint clear, inspiring pictures of the future, inviting others to see possibilities as vividly as they do. This shared understanding generates genuine enthusiasm, motivating teams to navigate challenges with resilience and creativity. Leadership becomes truly transformative when it unites clarity of purpose with sincere human connection.

Today’s rapidly evolving landscape demands leaders who can turn uncertainty into opportunity, guiding teams confidently toward ambitious goals. To achieve this, leaders must remain adaptive, aligning evolving strategies with an unwavering vision. Warren Bennis reminds us that leadership is ultimately measured not by the brilliance of ideas alone but by the tangible impact those ideas create. Let’s commit to clarifying our visions, communicating them compellingly, and relentlessly pursuing actions that turn extraordinary possibilities into concrete realities.

Clearly articulate your vision, inspire your team through meaningful connection, and take decisive action to transform ambition into reality.

Holcim's forthcoming spin-off, Amrize, is setting ambitious growth targets despite current headwinds in the U.S. construction sector. The company aims for annual adjusted EBITDA growth of 8-11% and sales growth of 5-8% from 2025 to 2028. With a projected mid-2025 listing valued at $30 billion, Amrize will be chaired by Holcim's current Chairman, Jan Jenisch, marking a significant move in the global construction landscape.

Operating over 1,000 sites across North America and employing 19,000 individuals, Amrize has demonstrated strong revenue and EBITDA growth since 2021. However, the U.S. construction market faces challenges, including high interest rates and inflation. The Portland Cement Association forecasts a decline in cement consumption, highlighting the hurdles ahead.

Holcim shareholders are set to vote on the spin-off on May 14, with anticipated listings on both the New York Stock Exchange and the SIX Swiss Exchange. This strategic move reflects confidence in Amrize's potential to navigate market challenges and achieve robust growth in the evolving construction industry.

Midland, Michigan, is set to experience a significant technological upgrade as Ripple Fiber, a fiber optic internet provider, begins installing fiber optic cables on April 7, 2025. This initiative aims to connect 28,000 homes in Midland to high-speed internet, complementing the 60,000 homes already under construction in Wayne County. Ripple Fiber's network will offer 10-gig-ready, 100% fiber optic service, with package options including 500 Mbps, 1 Gig, and 2 Gig speeds. Residents are encouraged to pre-order services online, by phone, or in person to ensure timely connection.

Local officials and community leaders are optimistic about the project's potential to enhance the city's digital infrastructure, attract new businesses, and support remote work opportunities. Midland City Manager Brad Kaye emphasized the importance of this advancement, stating that reliable, high-speed internet service is crucial for the community's growth and development. The expansion is backed by $200 million in investment capital, reflecting a strong commitment to improving connectivity in the region.

While the project promises numerous benefits, some residents have expressed concerns about the installation process and potential disruptions. Ripple Fiber has assured the community that efforts will be made to minimize inconveniences during construction. As the installation progresses, Midland stands on the brink of a digital transformation that could position it as a leader in technological accessibility and innovation in Michigan.

A groundbreaking residential high-rise in Milwaukee, known as Ascent, has become the tallest mass timber building in the world, setting a fresh milestone in sustainable construction. At 25 stories, this impressive wooden structure symbolizes the increasing adoption of cross-laminated timber (CLT), a renewable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional steel and concrete. Crafted from sustainably harvested lumber, CLT panels provide both structural integrity and aesthetic warmth, drastically reducing the project's carbon footprint compared to conventional building materials.

Mass timber isn't just environmentally friendly; it’s reshaping city skylines and attracting eco-conscious residents drawn by its unique charm and proven fire resistance. Developers across the US are watching closely, seeing mass timber as a way to accelerate building schedules, minimize on-site waste, and enhance worker safety through precision prefabrication. Ascent's swift assembly, accomplished through factory-built CLT modules, demonstrates how mass timber can streamline construction timelines without sacrificing strength or beauty.

Yet, while enthusiasm grows, mass timber still faces challenges like evolving building codes, higher upfront costs, and public perception hurdles. Despite these obstacles, the success of Milwaukee’s Ascent project has energized advocates who predict mass timber will soon become a staple in American urban living, redefining residential construction with sustainability at its core.

Introduction
Good morning, Team! Today’s toolbox talk addresses the safe use of portable band saws. These saws are great for precise cutting of metal and wood, but can cause severe injuries if misused.

Why It Matters
Portable band saw blades operate at high speeds, making them hazardous if they catch or slip. Proper usage protects your fingers, hands and prevents serious lacerations or amputations.

Strategies for Safe Portable Band Saw Use

Discussion Questions

Conclusion
Respecting portable band saw safety prevents injuries. Follow inspections, PPE guidelines, secure your work, and keep your focus to ensure safety and efficiency.

Cut carefully, stay safe!